10 things never to store in an over-the-door organizer – and where to put them instead

Over-the-door organizers are great for saving space and keeping your home tidy – but not everything belongs in them. Some items are simply too heavy, dangerous, or temperature-sensitive to store in these convenient pockets.

Our home and organization experts reveal 10 things you should avoid storing in an over-the-door organizer – and where to put them instead.

Armed with the best home organizing ideas, you'll have your storage streamlined in no time.

1. Makeup

Makeup products are sensitive to temperature and humidity changes, which can cause them to degrade faster. They also come in small and varied sizes, so can be easy to lose.

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'Because many over-the-door organizers live in the bathroom, people tend to put a lot of health and beauty products in them.

'But loose makeup does not go well in there because they can be sensitive to temperature, plus – in reality – you are never going to find it again. While we recommend tall or big items like shampoo and lotion bottles, for most makeup and smaller products we recommend storing them in skinny, clear containers.'

Soreff recommends these Design BPA-Free Plastic Pantry and Kitchen Storage Organizer Bins, available from Amazon. Though intended for fridge or freezer, they work just as well within bedroom dresser drawers to neatly compartmentalize your cosmetics.

2. Tools

Heavy tools like hammers, screwdrivers, and wrenches are too bulky and weighty for the pockets of an over-the-door organizer.

Elissa Hall, lead designer at Awning.com, says, 'Over-the-door organizers aren’t designed to bear significant weight, so storing heavy tools like hammers or hardware kits can compromise the integrity of both the door and the organizer itself, leading to potential safety hazards.

'A better alternative would be a wall-mounted pegboard system. The Elfa Utility Board from The Container Store is a fantastic option – it keeps heavier items secure, accessible, and off the door, while adding a sleek, organized look to any workspace.'

For more tips and product recommendations, check out our guide on how to store DIY tools.

3. Electronics

Storing electronics, chargers, or tangled wires in an over-the-door organizer can lead to damage, especially if they’re constantly being moved or jostled.

Hall says, 'Placing electronics like tablets, chargers, or headphones in an over-the-door organizer exposes them to humidity, especially if the organizer is used on a bathroom door. This can shorten the lifespan of the devices or create a risk of water damage.

'For safer storage, consider a small desktop organizer like a cable management box, which keeps cords tidy and gadgets protected from moisture, while also offering easy access.'

4. Cleaning supplies

Cleaning products often contain chemicals that can leak or spill, creating a potential mess or hazard in an over-the-door organizer. Plus, they may be too heavy for the fabric to support.

Hall says, 'Storing cleaning supplies in an over-the-door organizer can be a mistake due to potential leaks and spills. Many cleaning products contain chemicals that, if tipped or spilled, can damage surfaces or pose safety risks, especially in areas with frequent movement.

'Instead, opt for a sturdy utility caddy with a handle, which keeps items upright and is easy to move around the house as needed. A great product here is the Rubbermaid Deluxe Carry Caddy from Amazon – it’s stable, portable, and prevents accidental spillage, making cleaning more efficient and safe.'

Check out our guide on how to organize cleaning supplies for more top tips.

5. Sharp objects

Knives, scissors, and other sharp objects pose a danger when stored in flimsy pockets that may rip or allow them to fall out.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'Storing sharp objects like scissors or knives in an over-the-door organizer is a safety hazard, especially in households with children. If the organizer shifts or if a pocket rips, it could cause an unnecessary injury.

'Instead, store them safely in a drawer with proper dividers. This keeps them secure and out of reach of children, reducing accidents and ensuring they are easy to locate. As an added precaution, you can store them with protective blade covers to minimize the risk of injury.'

Toner recommends this Joseph Joseph Store Drawer Knife Organizer from Amazon, which can store up to nine knives with its space-efficient two-tier design.

6. Wine

Bottles of wine or alcohol are too heavy for over-the-door storage and could cause serious damage if they fall.

Toner says, 'Over-the-door organizers aren’t designed to support the weight of heavy wine bottles. The weight can cause the organizer to sag or even rip, leading to damage to your door and wasted product if something spills.

'Opt instead for a sturdy bar cart or wall-mounted wine rack instead. I personally love this Sorbus Wall Mount Wine Rack, available from Amazon, which combines safety and style.'

7. Hair styling tools

Hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons get hot and shouldn’t be stored in places that don’t allow for adequate cooling.

Toner says, 'These items are bulky, heavy, and may still be warm after use, which is a hazard in fabric over-the-door organizers. The cords can also get tangled or caught.

'Instead, store hair tools in a heat-resistant basket or drawer. This not only keeps them organized but also prevents any fire risk if they're still warm after use.'

Toner recommends this Polder Style Station Hair Tool Organizer from Amazon, which comes in five different color options including black, white and blush.

8. Medications

Medications should not be stored in places exposed to temperature swings, like an over-the-door organizer in a bathroom or kitchen.

Toner says, 'Medications should not be stored in an over-the-door organizer because they are exposed to fluctuating temperatures, light and humidity. This can affect the effectiveness and shelf-life of the medications.

'Instead, store medications in a cool, dry place like a bathroom cabinet or a drawer. Make sure they’re clearly marked – this helps to maintain the stability of the medications and keeps them safely stored out of children’s reach.'

For more organizational tips, check out these nine things to get rid of from your medicine cupboard now.

9. Jewelry

Jewelry can get tangled or damaged when placed in an over-the-door organizer. It’s better to use a jewelry box with separate compartments or a hanging organizer specifically designed for jewelry to avoid tangling and scratching.

This Biamonte Freestanding Jewelry Armoire from Wayfair features a full-length mirror, as well as 360-degree rotating base, allowing you neat storage and easy access to your jewelry.

10. Important documents

Storing important papers in an over-the-door organizer exposes them to potential damage from humidity, bending, or tearing. Use a fireproof and waterproof filing cabinet or a secure document box to keep these documents safe.

This Dorys 4-Drawer Filing Cabinet from Wayfair is lockable and comes in five color options including black, white, gray and gray wash.

So there you have it – 10 things never to store in an over-the-door organizer, and where to put them instead. While over-the-door organizers are great for certain items like shoes, scarves, and small accessories, many things are better stored elsewhere to avoid damage or safety risks.

Next, check out these five questions to ask yourself when organizing your home.